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Free After Three

The Newsletter is supporting calls by Stafford borough councillor Philip Jones to make it Free after Three at council car parks.

The aim is to rejuvenate our town centres in this tough economic climate by giving shoppers the chance to pop into town easily and traders to benefit from the extra footfall.

And now the Newsletter is calling on readers to show their support by signing our petition to convince the council it is time for a rethink.

The campaign has the support of Stafford Chamber of Commerce and business bosses in Stafford and Stone.

Stone traders have also recently been calling for free parking in the town to bring in more business.

Councillor Jones is urging the borough council to trial the Free after Three scheme.

He said: “It is something that should certainly be trialled as it could really help to rejuvenate our high streets.

“I have been shocked to see the number of empty shops in both Stafford and Stone and we need to act now.

“Anything that encourages business in our town centres is vital and I would urge all traders and members of the public to get behind this campaign.”

Keith Karasinski, who runs Halpin’s Menswear in Salter Street, added: “As a trader, parking is the biggest concern. The competition from out-of-town retail parks offering the big shops and free parking is tough. Something must be done.”

Petitions can be signed at the Newsletter offices in Derby Street, Stafford, or by completing the form below.

Supporters can also send their names and addresses to editor@staffordshire newsletter.co.uk.

Traders wanting forms can pick them up from the Newsletter.